Good Books

Lola Young's song 'Good Books' delves into the emotional turmoil of a one-sided relationship where the protagonist feels undervalued and neglected. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a partner who is dismissive and emotionally unavailable, prioritizing other activities over the relationship. The opening lines set the tone, highlighting the partner's indifference and the protagonist's yearning for attention and validation. The ultimatum of 'me or the weed' underscores the desperation and the lack of seriousness with which the partner treats the relationship.

The recurring metaphor of 'shoveling shit to the left' symbolizes the protagonist's efforts to clear away the emotional debris and maintain a semblance of normalcy in the relationship. Despite these efforts, the partner's lack of interest and engagement makes it a futile endeavor. The phrase 'I work hard to stay in your good books, but you don’t read, so why do I try?' poignantly captures the essence of the struggle – the protagonist's efforts go unnoticed and unappreciated, leading to a sense of hopelessness and frustration.

The song also touches on themes of emotional abuse and passive-aggressiveness, as seen in the lines about breaking the protagonist's heart and phone. The repeated plea to 'keep that in my mind' reflects a desperate hope that the partner will eventually recognize and appreciate the protagonist's efforts. Lola Young's soulful delivery and raw lyrics make 'Good Books' a powerful exploration of the pain and exhaustion that come with loving someone who doesn't reciprocate the same level of care and attention.